Question

Taking the examples of whole grain atta, fruit and green leafy vegetables, describe how roughage in our diet is useful.

Answer 1

Whole grain atta, fruits and green leafy vegetables are the chief sources of roughage.

(1) Roughage does not provide any nutrients to our body. It still has nutritive value and is essential for the proper functioning of the gut.

(2) It absorbs a lot of water and retains it. In this way, it keeps faecal matter soft preventing constipation.

(3) It combines with intestinal waste and makes it bulky.

(4) It helps in the formation of stools and helps our body to expel the undigested waste food.

(5) Roughage expands the intestinal lumen and helps in slow and smooth movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract. This movement is required for proper and complete digestion of food and for the elimination of intestinal waste.

(6) Roughage stimulates secretion from the digestive tract and also helps in removal of cholesterol, fatty secretory substances and toxins from the body.